Santa Clarita Diet and the 10 top Drew Barrymore performances so far
By Reed Gaudens
8. Scream
Original release date: Scream made its world premiere in Los Angeles on Dec. 18, 1996, and was released in theaters two days later on Dec. 20, 1996.
Box office earnings: Even though the film only made over $6 million in its opening weekend, Scream ultimately found success at the box office. Through its initial theatrical run and 1997 re-release, the horror classic grossed $173 million against its estimated $15 million budget.
Critical acclaim: Scream holds a 79% rating on Rotten Tomatoes and received a mostly positive reception from critics upon release. The film’s sense of humor and revamping of the horror genre earned high marks from critics and audiences alike. Barrymore landed a Saturn Award nomination for Best Supporting Actress, and Neve Campbell won for Best Actress.
About the role: Barrymore stars in the opening sequence of Scream as Casey Becker, the first victim of the ominous serial slasher Ghostface. Casey, a high school student, makes popcorn for a movie night and answers a phone call from a creepy mystery caller. Of course, he asks her about scary movies before she finds herself living in one. Immediately after Casey’s death, the wrath of Ghostface continues to inch closer and closer to Sidney Prescott (Neve Campbell).
Why it’s the best: Although Drew Barrymore only appears in the first few minutes of the movie, her appearance in Scream just might be one of the most memorable movie moments of all time. Obviously, the opening sequence sets the stage for the chilling humor that’s to come from the rest of the film and franchise, and no one’s more equipped with leaving a lasting memory in the audience’s mind than the then-unpredictable Barrymore. Who could ever forget that beige sweater, blonde bob, old school landline, and captivating performance?